It's a little embarassing to post these pics in a forum titled "machinery" but you asked. Here’s my version of a low-buck spinner. The drill motor is bolted through the tapped hole in the side to a hardwood board with a ½ in. slot routed along the centerline. My “tailstock” shown is a made of aluminum angle attached to a piece of channel that fits the slot. Two ball bearings are bolted through slotted holes for adjustable support at the tip end. I have a few joint pins in common sizes for the chuck, plus some adapters made from dowel stubs glued to crutch tips. Spins nice and smooth once you adjust the height at the tip end. I’ve done shaft seal and polish work, tips, and even a re-taper. With a different “tailstock” I’ve even done a couple wrap jobs. Haven't attempted a ferrule yet and probably never will unless I make a new version with some kind of tool post. So far, investment in hardware is just over $20. I have no aspirations of being a real cue repairman, but I enjoy the convenience this provides for tipping, tinkering and maintenance. Future upgrades planned include a foot switch, as well as a spring-loaded loop over the top of the ferrule with another bearing, and maybe even an adjustable tool rest for trimming new tips or mushrooms. I hope it’s a thought-starter at least. Just get yourself a couple junk cues to learn with before you bolt down a good shaft.
Bill
